Police widen search in Wendy Ladner-Beaudry homicide

RCMP and Vancouver Police have expanded their search along jogging trails in Pacific Spirit Park near UBC where Wendy Ladner-Beaudry, 53, was found dead by park-goers on Friday, April 3.

She was out jogging that afternoon and may have fallen victim to a random attack near the entrance to the park.

Police have responded with a massive investigation, closing sections of the park to the public while 75 officers continue to comb the area for clues Wednesday. While an autopsy has been performed the cause of death has not been revealed, and the police are also keeping other aspects of the investigation quiet while they continue to follow leads. Some reports suggest that the police focused their investigations on homeless living in the park.

Ladner-Beaudry was an elite athlete, as well as a leading proponent of sport in the province as co-chair of the B.C. Games Society and her involvement with Kidsport Canada. She was also the sister of Vancouver politician and former mayoral candidate Peter Ladner and was married to
Pique
columnist and consultant Michel Beaudry. The couple had two daughters. She and her family spent a lot of time in Whistler and her sister, Jinny Ladner, lives here full time.

Michel Beaudry issued a statement on Tuesday:

"The family of Wendy Ladner-Beaudry thanks all members of the community who have contacted police to offer tips to help with the investigation of Wendy's murder. We also acknowledge the police resources that are being devoted to this investigation and we encourage anybody who thinks they may have information that could help the investigation to contact the RCMP.

"We believe that this is a watershed moment in the history of Vancouver. Like everyone in the community, we are anxious to see the investigation lead to the arrest and conviction of whoever is responsible for this terrible act of violence. As a family that loves the outdoors, we also want to know that everything possible is being done to safeguard our parks and those who enjoy them."

"For now, our focus is on mourning our loss and celebrating Wendy's life, spirit and accomplishments. We are grateful beyond words for the tremendous expressions of sympathy that have come from across our community, indeed the world."